Chapter 1: Problem 21
Find the domain of each function. $$ \frac{\sqrt{x+2}}{x} $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The domain is \(( -2, 0 ) \cup ( 0, \, \infty )\).
Step by step solution
01
Identify the Conditions for the Square Root
The expression under the square root must be non-negative for the square root to be defined. Therefore, we need to ensure that \( x + 2 \geq 0 \). This simplifies to \( x \geq -2 \).
02
Determine Restrictions for the Denominator
Since division by zero is undefined, the denominator of the function, \( x \), cannot be zero. Therefore, \( x eq 0 \).
03
Combine the Conditions
Combine the two conditions from Step 1 and Step 2. The domain of the function is all real numbers where \( x \geq -2 \) and \( x eq 0 \).
04
Express the Domain in Interval Notation
The domain can be expressed in interval notation as \(( -2, 0 ) \cup ( 0, \, \infty )\).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Understanding the Square Root Function
The square root function is a fundamental concept in algebra that involves finding the principal square root of a number. When dealing with a function that includes a square root, such as \( \sqrt{x+2} \), it is crucial to consider its domain. The domain of a square root function is the set of all real numbers for which the expression under the square root is non-negative. This is important because we cannot take the square root of a negative number in the set of real numbers.
- For \( \sqrt{x+2} \), we need \( x+2 \geq 0 \) to ensure that the expression remains defined on the real number set.
- This condition tells us that \( x \geq -2 \). These are the permissible values for \( x \) that keep our function valid.
Interval Notation Simplified
When describing the domain of a function, interval notation provides a concise and clear way to represent a set of numbers. It uses parentheses and brackets to define a span of values.
- In interval notation, square brackets \([ ]\) indicate that an endpoint is included in the interval, corresponding to \( \leq \) or \( \geq \).
- Parentheses \(( )\), on the other hand, mean the endpoint is not included, corresponding to '<' or '>' in inequalities.
Avoiding Division by Zero
Division by zero is a specific situation in mathematics that must be avoided because it leads to undefined results. In a rational function, the denominator cannot be zero, or the expression becomes impossible to evaluate meaningfully.
- For a simple fraction like \( \frac{a}{b} \), if \( b = 0 \), the fraction is undefined.
- This is true for any function, such as \( \frac{\sqrt{x+2}}{x} \), where we must ensure the denominator \( x eq 0 \).